There’s something magical about having your own bench tucked into the garden. It gives you a place to rest, sip your coffee, or just take in the beauty you’ve planted.
A bench makes your outdoor space feel more inviting, like it’s asking you to slow down and stay a while.
If you’ve been thinking about adding one, these easy DIY garden bench ideas are just what you need. They’re budget-friendly, beginner-approved, and can be built in just a few hours with materials you might already have.
Whether your style leans rustic, modern, or somewhere in between, there’s a bench here that’s perfect for your backyard.
#1 Gabion Garden Bench
If you’re looking for a fun way to bring color and comfort to your garden, this gabion bench idea might just be the one.
The base is made by stacking wire cages filled with smooth river stones, giving it a sturdy, earthy feel that fits right into any outdoor corner. The vibrant striped cushions turn a simple bench into a cozy, cheerful hangout.
You can build it with mesh wire, some stones, and a few wood planks for the seat. Add cushions that match your style and suddenly, you’ve created the perfect little escape right in your backyard.
#2 A Simple Wood and Stone Bench
This stone-and-wood bench is a lovely example of how simple materials can create something truly inviting. If you’ve got a quiet corner near your entryway or garden path, this setup brings charm without any fuss.
The base uses stacked concrete blocks for support, while a thick wood plank on top adds that warm, natural feel.
You can put it together with just a level surface and a bit of patience, no tools or screws needed. Dress it up with potted flowers or a cushion if you like, or let the raw texture shine on its own.
#3 Pallet Garden Bench
This DIY pallet bench brings charm and practicality to any backyard with very little effort.
It’s made from just a few stacked wooden pallets, painted a crisp white for a clean, cheerful look. The green cushions add comfort and a pop of color, while the backrest even has a built-in planter for trailing blooms or herbs.
You can build it in under an hour, just stack, screw, and paint. Add pillows for extra coziness or use the bottom slots to store garden tools or magazines. It’s budget-friendly, full of character, and perfect for lazy afternoons outdoors.
#4 Old Brick With Wood Garden Bench
Here’s a simple bench idea that brings warmth and structure to your yard using materials you might already have. Just stack bricks or pavers into two sturdy towers and rest thick wooden planks across the top to create the seat.
It’s quick to assemble and doesn’t require any special tools or fasteners. You can leave the wood natural for a rustic look or stain it to match your outdoor style.
Add a potted plant on one end, like in the photo, to soften the lines and bring some life to the setup. This bench is great for shady corners or as a casual spot to sip your morning coffee.
#5 Cinder Block Garden Bench With Potted Plant
Source: Allene Garagan
This clever bench idea makes use of basic cinder blocks and wooden beams to create a stylish and sturdy seat. The blocks are stacked at each end and double as plant stands, adding greenery right where you sit.
All you need to do is slide the wooden boards through the openings, and your bench is ready, no tools required. It’s a great option if you’re short on time but want something eye-catching and functional.
You can paint the cinder blocks to match your patio or leave them plain for a clean, modern look. This setup works beautifully along a garden path, next to a wall, or on your porch.
#6 Another Cinder Block Bench Idea
This cozy garden bench proves that simple materials can create something full of personality. Made entirely from stacked cinder blocks, it offers a super sturdy base and a deep seat for lounging.
The colorful patterned blankets add instant comfort and charm, turning a basic build into a welcoming hangout spot. You can tuck trailing plants into the open block spaces for a bit of greenery and whimsy.
To recreate it, just stack the blocks into an L-shape, slide in a few wood boards if you want added support, and layer it with your favorite outdoor throws. It’s perfect for relaxed mornings, garden chats, or just stretching out with a good book.
#7 Outdoor Concrete Bench
Source: HomeNord
This sleek concrete bench brings a modern touch to any outdoor space while keeping things practical and pretty. Topped with a striped cushion for extra comfort, it’s the perfect perch for slipping off garden boots or enjoying a sunny afternoon.
The surface doubles as a display shelf for potted herbs and flowers, creating a fresh and fragrant little corner. You can pour the concrete into a simple wooden mold and let it cure fully before positioning it.
For extra style, keep the base minimal and pair with soft, natural elements like greenery or neutral textiles. It’s clean, crisp, and perfect for small patios or entryways.
#8 Wine Barrel Garden Bench
This wine barrel bench is full of character and charm, perfect for anyone who loves a rustic twist in the garden.
The rounded sides give it a cozy, enclosed feel, while the curved back and slatted seat add comfort and support. It’s a conversation starter, no doubt especially when paired with a few terracotta pots or set beside a gravel path.
To make your own, start with a halved wine barrel and reinforce it with a wooden frame before adding the slats. Sand and seal everything to protect it from the weather.
#9 Log Garden bench
Source: Peter Olsson
This log-style bench brings raw, rustic beauty to any outdoor space. Made from thick, unfinished timber and supported by sturdy log rounds, it looks like something straight out of a forest retreat.
The slight angle of the backrest makes it surprisingly comfortable, while the metal chain adds stability and a cool, rugged detail.
If you’ve got access to some logs and a saw, you can build this in an afternoon with a few simple cuts and basic hardware. Just be sure to level the ground before setting it up.
#10 Wood and Old Tire Garden Bench
This clever little bench turns old tires into something both fun and functional. It’s a smart way to reuse materials you might already have lying around, and the result is sturdy and playful.
The tires form solid arched legs while the wooden planks on top create a smooth and comfy seat. To build it, just cut the tires in half, secure them with side supports, then screw on your pre-cut wooden slats.
You can even stain the wood for a polished finish. It’s a great weekend project, especially if you love giving old things new life.
#11 Rustic Log And Wooden Garden Bench
This log-style garden bench brings such a cozy, woodland charm to your outdoor nook. Using thick tree stumps as legs gives it a sturdy base, while a distressed wooden plank across the top adds that lived-in feel.
To make one yourself, just cut even-height logs and top them with a weathered board, then secure it all in place.
You can leave the wood natural or sand and seal it for a smoother touch. Nestled among greenery and flowers, it’s a sweet little escape right outside your door.
#12 Simple Block Bench
This vibrant garden bench makes a bold statement with its striking orange wood slats and cool blue cinderblock frame. It’s fun, modern, and surprisingly easy to build, even if you’re new to DIY projects.
The cinderblocks give solid support while doubling as handy little cubbies for plants or garden tools.
To recreate this look, paint your blocks in your favorite shade, then slide sturdy boards through the openings. Add a few coats of outdoor sealant to protect the wood, and you’re ready to lounge.
#13 DIY Plant Bench
This clever little bench is both playful and practical, perfect for small patios or sunny corners.
It rests on two sturdy white planters, doubling as a spot for seating and a way to support slim trees or tall plants. The soft pink and green tones on the wood slats add a cheerful, summery feel that brightens up any outdoor space.
To make your own, just position two large planters at a good width and place a painted wooden board across the top. Add pillows and your favorite drinks, and you’ve got yourself a cozy spot to relax.
#14 Bathtub Outdoor bench
Now that’s a bench with personality! This upcycled bathtub has been transformed into a colorful mosaic seat that instantly grabs attention.
The vivid red and blue tiles give it a bold artistic vibe, while the curved shape offers a cozy spot to sit back and enjoy the garden.
You can recreate this by cutting an old tub, applying tile adhesive, and grouting small mosaic tiles in patterns that reflect your style. Add a weatherproof cushion to make it more comfortable.
#15 DIY Tree Bench With Chairs
This charming tree bench, made from repurposed wooden chairs, wraps around the base of a tree like a cozy circle of friends. Each chair-back adds character and comfort, while the slatted seat keeps it light and airy.
To build your own, remove the front legs of several old chairs, connect them with wooden slats, and paint the entire piece a cheerful white.
It’s perfect for shady afternoon chats or sipping coffee under your favorite tree. You’ll love how it turns a quiet corner into a peaceful gathering spot.
